Orion’s POV

It was absurd. The northern Duke’s affection for his daughter was understandable. But for my own father to entertain such a ridiculous idea—unthinkable.

“Calm down, son,” my father replied evenly. “It’s nothing more than a proposal. There’s no harm in letting young people get to know each other better, is there?”

“No, Father,” I snapped. “I refuse. I won’t meet Alina, and I certainly won’t be engaged to her. Our family hasn’t fallen so low that ...